This talk illustrates the choices of some indigenous islanders of Chiloé, southern Chile, who decided to move to the town, or to other countryside settings. This relocation implied an abrupt change of lifestyle and residence; however, a definitive move has never happened and people constantly re-negotiate their residency through regular or seasonal commuting.

Does one ever really leave? Does one ever settle? Where is home, and what makes it so? I reflect on the relation between people and places in a context of change and movement, considering the different strategies people employ to minimise loss while pursuing their aspirations.